By Sam Ramos
In a continued crackdown on illegal drugs, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) destroyed PHP 55 million worth of narcotics in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte. The incineration, held at Lamsan Incorporated’s facility, marked a significant step in the agency’s intensified anti-drug campaign in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), an area known for complex drug-related challenges. Over the past year, PDEA-BARMM has confiscated approximately PHP 200 million worth of illegal substances across the region, reflecting the agency’s 76% success rate in operations.
The destruction event, led by PDEA-BARMM Director Gil Cesario Castro, involved a high-capacity furnace provided by Lamsan, a local cornstarch producer. Representatives from local government units, police, and military authorities observed the process, underscoring the collaboration among various sectors in addressing the region’s drug problem. The operation included not only illegal drugs but also expired prescription medications, addressing a broader concern about controlled substances circulating in communities.
Despite this progress, BARMM remains one of the most affected regions in the Philippines in terms of drug prevalence, second only to the National Capital Region. The area’s unique socio-political landscape has posed challenges in the fight against illegal drugs, with authorities working to balance enforcement with community engagement. The PDEA’s recent operations reflect a sustained effort to improve public safety and diminish the presence of illegal drugs in BARMM, contributing to the larger nationwide anti-drug mission.
Nationwide, the PDEA regularly carries out drug disposal operations in line with judicial processes and environmental safety protocols, often utilizing incineration technology capable of reaching extreme temperatures to ensure safe and complete disposal of seized substances. This practice not only addresses safety concerns but also symbolizes the country’s commitment to a drug-free Philippines, a key aspect of the government’s long-standing anti-narcotics stance.